The Stewards Alliance on Resources (SAOR), consisting of the Fiji Council of Churches, the Social Empowerment Education Program Ltd (SEEP Fiji), and local landowner representatives, recently met with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Manoa Kamikamica, to address pressing development issues affecting local communities.
Chantelle Khan, Executive Director of SEEP Fiji, expressed her appreciation for the chance to engage with government leaders, recognizing their willingness to meet as a positive sign of openness.
Khan also commended the Coalition Government for its initiatives over the past two years aimed at strengthening Fiji’s democratic framework. The Alliance praised the government’s efforts to develop a comprehensive National Development Plan (NDP) through inclusive consultations.
Despite these advancements, the Alliance stressed the necessity of addressing community concerns as the NDP progresses. Archbishop Peter Loy Chong underscored the need for authentic people-centered development, stating, “The economy exists for the person, not the person for the economy.” His comments aligned with the Pacific Islands Forum’s focus on sustainable development within the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific.
SAOR raised three critical issues related to current development practices:
1. Unsustainable Resource Exploitation: Local leaders warned that rampant capitalism has resulted in the over-extraction of natural resources. Apakuki Pita Toga from Saivou pointed out, “We are no longer plundering the earth for our needs but for our wants.”
2. Division Among Citizens: The Alliance noted that inadequacies in national laws have led to unequal benefits from development, causing rifts within communities. Those residing near development sites often experience adverse effects, while financial benefits disproportionately favor landowners.
3. Accountability Challenges: The coalition expressed concern about the ease with which the government attracts investment, juxtaposed with the severe consequences faced by local communities. Dominika Nariva from Namosi emphasized that current development is not serving women and children effectively.
The Alliance reaffirmed its commitment to the National Development Plan, highlighting the need to safeguard Fiji’s natural resources for future generations. They called for a collaborative approach to ensure equitable distribution of development benefits among all citizens, emphasizing the importance of incorporating local voices in the nation’s growth strategy.
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